Beta testing is the type of testing that involves potential users after internal testing has been completed. During this phase, a product is released to a select group of external users, who provide feedback on their experience with the product in a real-world environment. This feedback is crucial for identifying any issues or areas for improvement before the final version is launched to the general public.
The significance of beta testing lies in its ability to gather insights from actual users who may use the product differently than the internal teams. This collaborative approach helps ensure that the final product is more user-friendly and aligned with the needs and expectations of the target audience.
Alpha testing, on the other hand, typically involves internal stakeholders and is focused on identifying bugs and issues as early as possible. Gamma testing is not a widely recognized phase in the product development lifecycle, and quality assurance testing is a broader term that encompasses various methods of ensuring the product meets specific standards but does not specifically denote user involvement.